Māori lived experience of osteoarthritis: a qualitative study guided by Kaupapa Māori principles
Nikita McGruer 1 , Jennifer N. Baldwin 1 , Brian T. Ruakere 1 , Peter J. Larmer 1 21 School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Private Bag 92006, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
2 Corresponding author. Email: peter.larmer@aut.ac.nz
Journal of Primary Health Care 11(2) 128-137 https://doi.org/10.1071/HC18079
Published: 18 July 2019
Journal Compilation © Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners 2019.
This is an open access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Osteoarthritis adversely affects people’s quality of life; however, the effects of osteoarthritis on Māori in New Zealand remain unknown.
AIM: To explore the Māori lived experience of osteoarthritis.
METHODS: A qualitative study guided by Kaupapa Māori principles. Māori adults (≥30 years) with clinical knee or hip osteoarthritis took part in semi-structured interviews that were recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis and a model of Māori health (Te Whare Tapa Whā, outlining four dimensions of wellbeing (taha tinana- physical; taha hinengaro- mental; taha wairua- spiritual; and taha whānau- family)) were used to analyse data.
RESULTS: Seven Māori females aged 44–71 years participated. Physical manifestations of osteoarthritis, namely pain and limited daily activities, affected mental, spiritual and family wellbeing. Participants experienced whakamā (shame) and frustration. Cultural duties such as attending the marae were impeded, affecting spiritual wellbeing and cultural identity. Participants described drawing on the strength of their ancestors to cope with their impairments. Western medicine was commonly used, although side-effects were prominent and few participants had received information about the condition from health professionals. Both positive and negative experiences of health-care and treatments were reported.
DISCUSSION: Osteoarthritis inflicts a substantial burden on the physical, mental, spiritual and family wellbeing of Māori women. Primary care practitioners must consider spiritual and family wellbeing when providing care for Māori with osteoarthritis. Culturally sensitive education for patients and their whānau is needed.
Keywords: Osteoarthritis; New Zealand; ethnic groups; primary health care; qualitative research
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